Mount Gretna PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania.
1. Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show
PREMIER ARTISTIC SHOWCASE
The Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show is one of the most prestigious art exhibitions in the country, consistently ranked among Sunshine Magazine's '200 Best' for over a decade. Visitors can explore a variety of American-made handcrafts and original art pieces displayed by talented exhibitors during the third weekend of August each year.
2. Mount Gretna Playhouse
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS
The Mount Gretna Playhouse offers an exceptional theatrical experience in a charming historic venue located at 200 Pennsylvania Avenue. Visitors can enjoy a variety of performances including concerts and plays in this cultural cornerstone of the Mount Gretna community.
3. Mount Gretna Tabernacle
SPIRITUAL CONCERT VENUE
The Mount Gretna Tabernacle is a historically significant circular building hosting the renowned Mt. Gretna Bible Festival with various concerts, worship events, and presentations by notable preachers and scholars. Located behind the UM Church in Mt. Gretna's Campmeeting section, this cultural and spiritual venue sits east of Pinch Road and south of Route 117.
4. Mount Gretna Lake & Beach
REFRESHING OUTDOOR RECREATION
Mount Gretna Lake & Beach offers a refreshing natural swimming destination open daily from May through early September. Visitors can enjoy the cool waters and sandy shores from 11:30 am to 6:30 pm during the summer season, making it a perfect escape from the heat.
5. Mount Gretna Roller Rink
CLASSIC SKATING FUN
The Mount Gretna Roller Rink provides a nostalgic skating experience that has delighted visitors for generations. Skaters of all ages can enjoy gliding around this classic venue that preserves the timeless joy of roller skating in the heart of Mount Gretna.
6. Mount Gretna Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Mount Gretna Historical Society Museum showcases the rich history of this unique Chautauqua community through engaging exhibits and artifacts at its 206 Pennsylvania Avenue location. Open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the museum offers both guided walking tours around Mount Gretna and a self-guided mobile tour called 'tutouria' for history enthusiasts.
7. Gretna Theatre
VIBRANT THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
Gretna Theatre presents professional theatrical productions in the heart of Mount Gretna's artistic community. Audiences can experience high-quality performances ranging from classic plays to contemporary works in this beloved cultural institution.
8. Summer Craft Market
HANDCRAFTED ARTISAN GOODS
The Summer Craft Market features exhibitors selling American-made handcrafts and original art pieces during the third weekend of August, coinciding with the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show. Visitors can browse unique handmade items from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday during the event.
9. Clarence Schock Nature Center at Governor Dick
PRISTINE HIKING TRAILS
The Clarence Schock Nature Center at Governor Dick offers varied hiking trails and bouldering opportunities in a preserved natural setting. Nature enthusiasts can explore different levels of trails while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this woodland retreat near Mount Gretna.
10. Pennsylvania Chautauqua
CULTURAL EDUCATION COMMUNITY
The Pennsylvania Chautauqua hosts a variety of summer programs in this historic community established in 1892 by Methodists. Visitors can explore the charming town with its summer cottages, 'Hall of Philosophy,' and small wooden Greek temple for the 'Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle' that transport them back in time.
11. Mount Gretna Visitor Center
TOURIST INFORMATION HUB
The Mount Gretna Visitor Center serves as the primary information hub for tourists during the summer months. Travelers can discover all the activities happening throughout the area, making it an essential first stop for planning a perfect visit to Mount Gretna.
12. Original Mount Gretna Cicada Music Festival
OUTDOOR MUSICAL CELEBRATION
The Original Mount Gretna Cicada Music Festival presents a series of outdoor concerts in this arts-focused community. Music lovers can enjoy performances spanning various genres while experiencing the unique ambiance of Mount Gretna's natural setting.
13. Mount Gretna United Methodist Church
HISTORIC SPIRITUAL LANDMARK
The Mount Gretna United Methodist Church stands as a historic spiritual landmark in this Chautauqua community with deep Methodist roots. Visitors can admire the traditional architecture and sense the rich religious history that helped shape Mount Gretna since its establishment in the late 19th century.
14. Porch and Pantry
BELOVED LOCAL EATERY
Porch and Pantry offers one of central Pennsylvania's finest breakfast and lunch experiences with gluten-free and vegan options available. Diners can enjoy delicious meals at this beloved establishment that perfectly captures the charming atmosphere of Mount Gretna.
15. Mount Gretna Hiking Trails
SCENIC WOODLAND PATHS
Mount Gretna Hiking Trails wind through acres of protected Gamelands, offering peaceful woodland exploration for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers and mountain bikers can traverse miles of trails while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds this charming community, especially in spring when the area is dusted with vibrant greenery.